Salem, OR – Volunteers at the Salem Public Library are pulling back from their roles in the genealogy program, citing privacy concerns over the city’s new background check process. The library’s genealogy initiative, which has long relied on a dedicated group of volunteers to assist visitors in tracing their family histories, is now facing a significant decline in participation.
The recent shift to a mandatory background check for all volunteers, as part of the city’s revised policies, has caused unease among many long-time contributors. Volunteers argue that the new process is overly intrusive, leading some to feel that their privacy is being compromised. As a result, several experienced volunteers have resigned from their positions, leaving the program’s future in jeopardy.
For years, the library’s genealogy project has been a vital resource for community members interested in uncovering their ancestral roots. Volunteers, many of whom are retirees or history enthusiasts, provide invaluable assistance to patrons navigating historical records, old documents, and various research tools. However, the new policy, introduced by the City of Salem, now requires all individuals working with the public to undergo a thorough background screening.
Though the background checks are intended to ensure the safety of library patrons and maintain a standard of trustworthiness among volunteers, some in the genealogy program view the process as an unwarranted invasion of privacy. These volunteers argue that the program’s long-standing reputation has been built on the trust and experience of its members, and that the new requirement undermines that foundation.
“This change feels unnecessary,” said one volunteer, who has been helping patrons with genealogy research for over five years. “We’ve always been trusted, and now it feels like we’re being treated as if we can’t be trusted. I understand the importance of safety, but I think there should be a more balanced approach.”
The library’s genealogy coordinator, who oversees the program, expressed concern about the impact the new policy is having on volunteer engagement. “We understand the need for background checks, but we also value the commitment and expertise of our volunteers,” she said. “With so many stepping away, we’re worried about how we’ll be able to continue offering the same level of service.”
As the situation develops, it remains unclear whether the city will reconsider or amend its policy. Some volunteers have suggested the implementation of a more tailored approach to background checks, one that considers the specific nature of the genealogy program and the minimal risk involved in the volunteer tasks.
For now, the future of Salem Public Library’s genealogy program hangs in the balance as it grapples with the unintended consequences of a policy designed to protect its patrons but, in some cases, has led to the loss of valued volunteers.
